Author's Note: WARNING- SEXUAL CONTEXT.

Chapter 33-Perfect

Baby every little piece of the puzzle doesn't always fit perfectly. Love can be rough around the edges, Tattered at the seams. Honey, if it's good enough for you, It's good enough for me

What TenTen needed, was words. She needed to hear that he was in pain too. She needed to hear that he held no blame. But those words just weren't possible for Neji to say. That wasn't the type of person he was. So the only step he could and would take, was to show the world that he chose her. Even if it was none of their damned business.

Neji gripped the back of her head and smashed her lips against his. She stood stiff, shocked at first but within moments, she gave in, surrendering, understanding his actions and what this meant. Her fingers gripped the front of his kimino, holding on in her weakness. It would have made him happy if her tears weren't mixing with their lips. He had allowed her to be alone for too long and now there would be damage that he would somehow have to mend. He wasn't sure how he was going to do so but he sure as hell was never going to stop trying.

The pain came so swiftly and suddenly, Neji nearly pushed TenTen out of his grasp so he could clutch his throbbing head, digging his nails into his skin to somehow rip out the agony inside. He dropped to his knees, screaming against the ground, unable to withhold any of it inside.

TenTen was in front of him, her hands touching, panicked, speaking but none of her words made any sounds. He barely knew she was there. She looked around fearful, ready to call for help when she saw a man with two of the night guards standing beside him, looking down upon them, a subtle form of disapproval on his thick brow.

"Pick him up." This stranger wore no curse on his forehead and proudly stood as two of the branch members lifted Neji by the arms. His feet dragged and he was incoherent nearly unconscious as they dragged him away.

TenTen whipped out a knife in defense but the one that spoke the order glared down at her, "Bring her too." Hands grasped her arms. She would have fought harder but her desperation to stay with Neji kept her from doing so.

They were brought through the compound. Members of the clan had been awoken by Neji's scream, they're lights were bright peaking out of their windows and doors, whispering to themselves. TenTen glared at each and everyone one of them.

The giant house in the center of the village was their destination. A light was on in a single room and upon opening the door, the leader Hiashi, sat in his night clothes obviously hating the fact he had been awakened at such an early hour.

TenTen knew only stories of this man. He was Neji's uncle, the one that taught Neji all he had known when they were young. He was also the one who raised him on the evil water this clan believed in. She was sarcastically surprised when she didn't see the same hate in his gaze as his predecessors. She ripped her arms out of their holds and went to Neji's side when he was dropped unceremoniously to the floor.

Even under his pain-induced half conscious state, Neji seemed to know where he was. He grit his teeth in his pain, weakly tucked his legs under him in a sort of bow while his lower body never rose from the floor.

"What is the meaning of this?" Hiashi immediately asked, knowing the aftermath of the Juin Jutsu.

The man that spewed the orders bowed, "Young Neji was seen showing affection to this girl."

"Is this true?"

Neji, still unable to lift his head from his deep powerless bow, nodded.

"Leave us."

TenTen softly stroked Neji's back, hoping by any chance to ease his pain and it was also a comfort to her for she now felt the eyes of the leader scanning over her. After the door shut, Hiashi stood, his full height now more intimidating with the look of reproach.

"I thought I told you to end it."

TenTen narrowed her eyes. So he was the one that convinced Neji to walk away from her. Well, now she had a personal reason to not like this man.

Hiashi continued, "You lied to me. For a year. I do not like being lied to."

Neji was finally able to lean back on his heals. His hands however supported him, his arms shaking under the weight. Sweat dripped down his temple and his body was still strained from the pain. He didn't have enough strength yet to life his head. "I tried."

"I thought you wanted to become part of the Main members."

"I do."

"I have sacrificed much. I have gone against the council numerous times for you. Gone against our laws for you. This match that I had set up would have made you part of the main family."

"I am grateful."

TenTen gazed down at Neji, a terrible shock to find that out. He had kept such a secret from her. If she had known that she would have stayed away, she should have stayed away. She whispered his name in the wake of this knowledge but a slight hand was raised momentarily to keep her quiet. He had made his decision. It was final. A small smile began to breach her lips.

"I am disappointed. That you would give it all up for her."

"I will continued to work hard."

"It doesn't matter. Why couldn't you just gotten rid of her like I told you too?" The man sat on the floor, with his legs turned under him. He had sighed very heavily before his eyes rested on the female. "What is your name?"

She wasn't going to answer. She didn't like how he was treating Neji as he was nothing more then dirt beneath his shoe. But Neji's tired eyes turned to her.

"TenTen."

"And now that you know everything that he will lose, you will still stay beside him?"

It was hesitation only because she loved him so much. She didn't know what would happen if they continued on this path. She didn't know if she should allow him to sacrifice so much for her while she, sacrifices nothing. But those pale eyes of his were gazing at her, forcing the truth from her like they always do. "If it is what he wants, then…yes."

"And it is what you want?" Neji tore his eyes from her finally and nodded. Hiashi sighed. "Fine. But this cannot leave the room. Many did not want you to marry a main member so this should shatter no hopes. But it is against our rules for you to marry an outsider. Even I will not protest that."

Neji nodded once, "That's fine."

"It would do you wise to stay away, Miss TenTen. The council will go before the Hokage to get her to change your teams. They will do everything to get you away from our Hyuuga clan. Even kill. Do not give them anymore reason to be suspicious of you. I will try to disband the rumors quickly."

Tenten's hand dropped from his back. Perhaps it was a win for Neji's side but she felt like she was once again trapped. To pretend, to lie, to hide away like some rodent being chased by children. What kind of life would that be? What kind of relationship was that? None of this had solved anything.

Hiashi rose to leave but Neji's voice called after him, stronger now.

"I do not intend hide, uncle."

"Don't be stupid, Neji." The leader scoffed, going to walk out.

Neji stayed in his bowed position but as his strength increased with every passing minute he now sat straight, proud and defiant. "I only say this out of respect for you, Uncle. But I will do this with or without your permission."

Hiashi's lavender eyes glared dangerously and the silence felt deadly for TenTen. When they flicked over to her she flinched uncontrollably but quickly straightened with her inner strength. Hiashi turned his back. "Protect her well then."

With both hands, Ino grasped Shikamaru's cheeks and pulled him down to meet her lips harshly. Her eyes were kept tight, terrified of rejection. His lips were tight against hers, his body rigid, his breath still. Yet despite that, he didn't pull away which was the only thing that kept the tears at bay.

What would he think? What would he say?

Perhaps it wouldn't matter anyway. She was leaving, she wouldn't have to stay and deal with the awkward aftermath. But what if he actually felt something. Her belly filled with excitement, hope pulsing through her hands, so much so she was sure he felt it.

Then he gripped her hands, ripping his face from her. Ino snapped open her eyes, tears already filling, but his gaze was elsewhere. Ino didn't need to look. She bowed her head, slightly shameful, whispering an apology to Temari to absolve her consciousness. Ino let her eyes land on his hands that still held hers. A slight miserable smile tugged at her lips.

Ino could only guess that Temari turned and ran.

"Kuso." Shikamaru bit taking a step after Temari, dropping Ino's hands like they were forgotten weapons on a empty battlefield.

Shikamaru flipped his gaze back to Ino but she kept her sight to the ground. He shook his head, his cheeks clenching to figure out what he wanted to say. "I-" Ino's dark blue eyes lifted to his and he could see the turmoil disturbing her. Shikamaru sighed. His brows knit as frustration shined in his eyes. "I-" He grit his teeth. He knew what he was thinking but speaking his thoughts wasn't something he had ever been good at. Disappointment filled his voice, "I like her, Ino." He forced out. "You-" Shikamaru began backing up, knowing he had to get after Temari before she got too far away. "I waited for years." Shikamaru shook his head before turning around, his back finally facing her. How hard that movement had been on him, he shut his eyes in aggravation. "We'll talk when you get back." He ran down the hill

She smiled sorrowfully. "Sayounara." She whispered watching his form disappear before turning her back on the village. She was ready to go now.

"Alright." Kiba grabbed Hinata's arm and led her over to the bench. Whether Akarmaru really didn't wake or was faking, Kiba didn't care. He sat her down, keeping hold of her hand so he wouldn't lose his nerve. "I've been meaning to tell you something for a while now."

"Kiba-kun."

"Let me say it, Hinata." He caught her gaze but then swiftly moved his eyes away. He didn't want to face her rejection quite yet. He wanted at least a moment for him where everything he said and did mattered to her and he wanted to believe that this moment would change both of their lives. He wanted to be able to remember this moment and have only the best memories be in his dreams at night. He wanted to do what Sakura taught him. This was his chance and he was sure he would never get another one. Hinata would fall in love with him in this moment and everything would be perfect for a few short seconds in their imperfect ninja lives.

He took a deep breath to prepare himself for the words that he so needed to say to the woman he's been in love with for the past three years.

"There you are!"

Kiba's breath caught and his eyes swiftly turned. Akamaru woke, got to his feet and growled violently. Naruto jumped down from the building, "Come on, we got to hurry."

Hinata went to stand but Kiba still held tight to her hand and wouldn't release her. She looked at him and he turn his sight back to her in confusion. "Where are you going this late?"

Naruto was oblivious to what he had interrupted and responded to the question that wasn't directed at him. "We got to get in line. They're playing a new movie at midnight. It's super cool. It's got demons and superheroes, fire breathing dragons! Oh I can't wait." He was nearly dancing where he stood. "Come on Come on I want to get a good seat."

Hinata's guilt reflected in her eyes keeping them connected with Kiba. She held his hand tight, whispering through their touch everything she wanted to say but hadn't the heart too. She was sorry. Sorry she couldn't share his feelings and sorry she couldn't do anything about it. Her heart cried to him, wishing that she didn't have to break his heart but this was something she had to do.

Hinata slowly detached his hand.

Kiba smiled, "Go. Have fun."

"Come on Come on." Naruto grabbed Hinata's hand pulling her, ignoring Kiba's broken heart

Hinata tried to whisper an apology but Kiba turned his back before she got her chance.

When they were gone, Akamaru finally came over and rested his head in Kiba's lap, whining his sympathy. Kiba put a hand on his head. "We better go get ready." Yet he made no move.

Sasuke glared at her, wanting to be let go but the determination shined in her eyes. " I can't leave you, I won't leave you. I love you, damn it. I love you. You are still alive, Sasuke. Don't stop living yet. You're not dead yet! Let me show you." Her voice lowered. "Life doesn't have to be so unbearable. Let me show you." Sakura whispered as she leaned in and pressed her lips to his.

Sasuke's hand moved from her chest to her arm, his fingers digging into her skin, yanking her to crash into his chest, breaking the kiss in response. Her eyes were wide, tilting her head further back to gaze up at him. "This proves nothing."

She nodded, tears rolling down her cheeks, "Yes it will." The hand that was pressed upon his heart, rose to his cheek. "It will prove that you aren't alone." She leaned on the tips of her toes, her lips just a half an inch from his. "You'll never be alone again." She waited, waited for him to close the distance, her eyes were open staring up into his. His gaze was switching back and forth seemingly trying to find answers to the questions he had in his head. She waited and at one point fear reflected in her orbs, fear that he was going to turn away and push her out of his life.

Her eyes shut and tears dripped down when his lips finally touched hers, harshly, brutally, desperately. His arms encircled her as her own wrapped around him. Their tongues melting together, their breathing rough and uncontrolled. Neither were willing to break apart, for Sakura she was terrified if their lips detached for only an instant, whatever magic that was holding them together would dissolve and she'd been thrown from the room, hated and left wanton. But the longer they held on the more is was like a thirst neither of them could get enough of. She could feel his hands now pulling at her clothes and she helped willingly trying still not to part from him.

He broke from her lips and at first it terrified her, panic-stricken heart for only a beat before she felt his wet lips against her neck, her chest, her breasts, his hands upon her back pushing her closer. Sakura touched every part of him, kissing his cheeks, his hair, his neck, hanging on to his shoulders for dear life.

All the negative thoughts washed away. She had managed to make his defenses fall, and all his walls were gone and perhaps all of his negative views of the world vanished and he was drowned in a passion that made him still human.

At least she thought that way until her face hit the bed, his body pressed up against her naked back feeling his own nude attributes against her.

He grabbed her hair, pressing her cheek into the mattress, breathing into her ear. "I'm not who you remember." He bit sharply, panting hard, hoping to scare her in the position he had her in. Hoping then she'd get out of here. All she had to do was use her strength and she would be free to go, to run and not look back.

Sasuke wasn't sure if it was disappointment when she elbowed him in the chest. He fell off her, next to her against the bed and prepared himself for whatever fowl words she had for him.

His eyes only widened when she crawled on top, straddling him. Sakura smirked, "Neither am I." Her lips were back against his as she gripped him, pressing his tip against her. He grabbed her hips, pushing her downward and as their tongues battled, she settled on him, taking him deep. They broke apart if only to take a breath, to savor the moment of pleasure. She opened her eyes to watch his face. He had his eyes squeezed shut, his teeth clenching, unwilling to let any sound past his throat. She nibbled at his throat and slowly began to rock her hips. He flinched, his dull nails digging into her hips. A hand slid up her ribs and grasped her breast, pinching her nipple and she sucked in a sharp breath. She met his eyes then, they were open now, and watching her. His hand slid around her skin, feeling every bit of her and sometimes his eyes followed his hand, and the act itself was intimate and amazing. She leaned back, her hands on his stomach to help her as the pleasure began to build.

He sat up and held her bottom, forcing her faster and her arms wrapped arm him, holding on. Her moans were loud and unhindered. His lips touched her neck, her chest, her breasts and as his tongue carressed her nipple, she felt her orgasm hit. Her whole body stiffened against him. He leaned back and observed her, waiting patiently until she was ready again.

The heat of the room became unbearable after so long. They were covered in sweat. The blankets had been shoved from the bed and the pillows were strewn in weird places. He was laying behind her as they finally spent all of their pent up frustrations. Her head was twisted back towards him and she kissed him one last time as he slid out of her and stuffed a pillow between her legs to stop the flow of liquid from soaking the sheet beneath. He rolled on his back, panting, staring at the ceiling as she laid still in the crook of his armpit, breathing heavy but contented. Her hair tickled his rib cage.

It was quick, his words, like a bandaid. "I will never love you."

She turned to face him, a leg draping over his as causually as any lover. He didn't understand her. Hadn't she heard him? Why wasn't she leaving him yet?

"I'm not asking you too." She smiled warmly. "Just. Let me walk beside you."

She never gives up. Why won't she give up? She deserved more. She deserved better. He could provide nothing for her because he had nothing to give. And those were the words that found there way out as he glared at her, "I'm nothing, Sakura. Can't you see that?"

"You want to know what I see?" She propped up her head, another hand resting on his chest. She felt his heartbeat against, her skin warm. "A little boy who is so tired of running." Her fingers drifted to the side of his neck and rested on his curse, "I will give you all my strength to make your goals a reality."

His body stiffened drastically, fearing whatever power she used might just awaken his sensitive curse. It took only seconds and he soon realized the brutal pain that had been present for so incredibly long was slowly decreasing to a dull simmer before disappearing completely. Three years and finally he could feel everything else around him so clearly and without the shroud of agony around it. He could feel Sakura's body so smooth and perfect against him and it was so different from the way it felt before. Even the fire that burned, the heat was tolerable, the cave was livable, the darkness was bearable.

Sasuke caught her gaze when she pulled away. A smile was on her lips because she knew somehow that she had done what she had set out to do. He would have never imagined she would have been able to take away his pain. How much she has changed astounded him.

She rested her head in the crook of his neck and he found himself, resting his arm over his shoulder, holding her to him. It was instinctual, natural, a newly formed habit he couldn't stop.

"I won't stop you. Or hinder you in anyway. Just let me be with you."

He shut his eyes, shaking his head against the side of her face. "Why do you love me?"

Sakura's brows knit at the pain that etched itself in each word he spoke. Tears beginning to rise all over again and she tightened her hold, "I saw you smile once. You were seven years old, playing on the playground. And I thought to myself, if could make him smile, he would notice me, and my life would have meaning."

He swallowed, "I've forgotten how to smile, Sakura." His soft voice had been barely heard but the pleading within it did not go unnoticed.

"That's okay." She swallowed, "I'll smile enough for the both of us. As long as I'm with you, I'll be happy. And one day, after you destroy Itachi, maybe I can make you happy too."

Sasuke squeezed his eyes shut. A decision was being formed and it was a decision that wasn't exactly a choice. His body, or perhaps his soul wanted to stay here, in the arms of a woman who loved the monster he was. He had denied himself for so long any comfort or companionship and now he needed it in order to live much longer.

But he wasn't planning on living for very long.

Her words sank in and he knew what he had to do. He whispered remorsefully, "Maybe." Remorse was the only emotion he could feel now. The moment that one hopeful lie had past his lips she pulled back in surprise, just like he knew she would. And when her eyes caught his, she passed out. The fire lit his gaze revealing his Mangekyo Sharingan.

ahhh! SO WHAT DO YOU THINK! How much do you hate me hehehe tell me all your qualms, i'm so excited to read your feedback. toodles darlings